One of the most popular hikes in Big Bend, this is one that you'll want to get to either very early or much later in the afternoon/evening, or be prepared for it to be crowded (especially during good weather or more popular times of the year). It's a very easy hike, there's just one spot where you need to carefully navigate over some rocks that go across a creek - but be prepared that if there's been rain recently the water could be higher and you may get your boots wet. On the other side of the creek are some gradual, ramp-style paths leading you up and into Santa Elena Canyon for the beautiful views of the Rio Grande and the towering limestone walls. There are informative signs along the path, gorgeous views, and I'm sure it would be peaceful if there weren't many people there. Unfortunately we were there over New Year's (one of the most popular times in the park) and the trail was crowded with disrespectful tourists screaming and shouting into the canyon to make echoes, and generally being rude to everyone on the trail as they blocked other hikers to take pictures or just stand in the way. No trail etiquette and I definitely wish we'd been there when it was less crowded. Still, the views are beautiful, and you'll want to stop at the Santa Elena Canyon Overlook either before or after your hike to get some great shots of the canyon and learn a little more about this incredible feat of nature where the Rio Grande carved out the canyon over thousands of years as the limestone cliff was lifted due to movement along the fault. So cool! read more

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Amazing hike! The views are fantastic and the hike is relatively easy. It's only about 1.5 miles and will take less than an hour. Well worth it if you like the outdoors and enjoy hiking. read more

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An easy short walk with a bit of elevation gain - scenic views - except for the very beginning where you have to wade across 30 ft or so of water and climb up a muddy and slippery bank. Water pretty shallow comes up to just below knees. Water shoes or sandals would be good to have, otherwise after wading through barefoot you'd have to put your shoes/socks back on ver muddy feet. At half way point there is a spot with a good view of the canyon. Once you get to the end there isn't any view you are just up against a rock wall by the river - apparently when the water's low you can wade a bit into the canyon - more views - but it didn't look like it was possible when we were there in October. read more

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Spectacular! It is beautiful and amazing. Please don't allow your kids to be screaming ruining the experience for everyone else. read more

Santa Elena Canyon - Santa Elena - Local Flavor Near Me - Alpine, Texas

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Beautiful! My family had an excellent t time here and look forward to coming out again to camp. read more

Santa Elena Canyon - Santa Elena Canyon - Local Flavor Near Me - Alpine, Texas

Wow! Whoa! Ooooh! Aaaah! This is an amazingly beautiful site in the heart of the Big Bend National Park. This canyon has the Rio Grande running through it, and is available for viewing from either a half mile pathway that takes you to the heart of it, or a viewing area that's about a half mile away from it. This giant notch carved in the rock separating Mexico from Texas is a breathtakingly beautiful site. I am astounded that certain people wanted to put a border wall in here. Derp. You can get here from Mexico, I suppose. But the normal way is to go through Big Bend State Park. I took Old Maverick Road, which is a dirt road that goes 16 miles through the desert. In retrospect, I wish I had taken the paved road instead, but we made it through alive. My bike rack didn't. It's a rough road. Pets aren't allowed on the trail. When I went, parking was quite challenging. A park ranger was out directing traffic to park along the road the leads to the canyon. read more

One simply can not describe it. One MUST experience it. Where the Grand Canyon makes you feel minute as you witness it grandeur and breathtaking views, Santa Elena Canyon is majestic in all its splendor. Santa Elena is everything the Grand Canyon is but on a smaller, more accessible scale. Its tall, jagged cliffs are to be admired and appreciated. You just. Have. To visit. Go forward my friends. Explore and witness for yourselves. read more

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